UTStarcom today unveiled its first wireless broadband USB modem, the UM150 (site not updated). The UM150 weighs 1.57 ounces and measures 3.61 x 1.46 x 0.65-inches. The device downloads at rates up to 3.1Mbps and upload at 1.8Mbps, running on multiple bands including CDMA 1x EVDO Rev. A and Rev. O, CDMA 1xRTT and CDMA 800, 1900MHz. UTStarcom's new modem works as a flash memory drive with 64MB of capacity that is expandable to 2GB or more via a built-in micro-SD card slot. The UM150 is slated for shipment before the end of the year (pricing was unavailable).

The high-speed USB 2.0 UM150 is compatible with Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later, as well as Windows 2000/XP/Vista systems. The UM150 also requires a 166MHz or faster processor, 14MB or more of hard disk space, and at least 32MB of memory. The modem also features a built-in retractable antenna with dual LED lights that indicate signal strength.

"With the UM150, CDMA carriers can offer their subscribers another powerful alternative to access wireless broadband service," said Philip Christopher, president of UTStarcom Personal Communications. "Busy professionals and business travelers will embrace the simplicity, versatility and portability of the UM150."